AURORA | Denver health officials on Monday confirmed that city’s first confirmed human case of West Nile virus this year, prompting reminders that mosquito-borne illness remains a risk even in the fall.
Arapahoe County confirmed one case this year so far, among about 40 reported so far this year statewide.
Denver health officials said mosquitoes remain active into the fall despite declining activity as temperatures cool. Across the metro area, the risk of West Nile virus continues until the first frost, which typically occurs in October.
West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and has been regularly reported in Colorado for more than 20 years, according to the department.
This year, of the 40 reported cases from across the state, two people died and about 20 were hospitalized from the West Nile Virus infection, according to the Colorado Department of Health.
Montrose and Boulder counties have reported the largest number of virus cases, according to state officials, with Montrose reporting 12 cases and Boulder reporting six, so far this year. Other metro counties reported one case each so far, or none.
Health officials urged residents to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate potential breeding sites around their homes.
State and city health officials recommend using insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, limiting outdoor activities around dusk and dawn, and wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing, long pants and tall socks when outdoors.
Residents also should drain standing water from flower pots, birdbaths, toys, buckets and other containers. Fountains and swimming pools should be maintained to ensure proper water circulation or drained and covered when not in use. Officials also recommend repairing window and door screens and avoiding watering paved areas, where puddles can form.
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus, making prevention important, Denver and state health officials say.
About one in five people infected with West Nile virus may develop symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, rash or gastrointestinal symptoms. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems, including those taking certain immune-suppressing medications, face a greater risk of severe illness.
This year, about 23 people infected in Colorado developed neurological symptoms after being infected with West Nile, state health officials said.